Tharaka University has successfully concluded its 8th Annual International Research Conference, a three-day scholarly forum that brought together researchers, academics, students and other stakeholders to explore the role of research and innovation in building resilient communities and promoting sustainable socio-economic development.
Held under the theme “Building Resilient Communities: Research and Innovation for Sustainable Socio-economic Development,” the conference provided a platform for knowledge sharing, presentation of research findings, scholarly discussions and exploration of innovative solutions to contemporary societal challenges.
The closing ceremony brought together the University’s leadership, researchers, participants and other members of the University community, with both Deputy Vice Chancellors in attendance: DVC (AFP), Professor Collins Miruka, and DVC (ARSA), Professor Veronica Nyaga.
In welcoming Prof. Veronica Nyaga, the DVC (AFP), Professor Collins Miruka, recognised her presence at the closing ceremony and expressed appreciation for her participation in the conference.
In her remarks, Prof. Veronica Nyaga, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics Research and Student Affairs (ARSA), thanked the University community for a job well done in organising and facilitating the three-day conference.
She commended the commitment and resilience demonstrated by the researchers and participants throughout the event.
Prof. Nyaga then welcomed the Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter K. Muriungi, to address the gathering.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter K. Muriungi lauded the Commission for University Education (CUE) for supporting Tharaka University. He welcomed the day’s keynote speaker, Prof. Mike Kuria, Chief Executive Officer, Commission for University Education.
Prof. Kuria, who delivered the keynote speech on behalf of Dr Beatrice Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, praised the researchers and participants for their active participation and commitment throughout the conference.
Prof. Kuria reiterated the importance of building resilient communities through research, innovation and practical problem-solving. He highlighted the role of research in identifying solutions to challenges affecting communities and in supporting sustainable socio-economic development.
He further spoke on the importance of economic resilience, noting the need to build communities that are better equipped to respond to challenges while contributing to economic growth. He also underscored the significance of research and technology in solving societal problems, encouraging researchers to ensure that knowledge and innovations generated through research translate into meaningful and practical solutions.
Prof. Kuria rooted for continued collaboration among researchers, institutions and other stakeholders in advancing research and innovation.
The three-day conference offered participants an opportunity to exchange knowledge, share research findings, engage in scholarly discourse and explore innovative approaches to addressing challenges facing communities and society.
Prof. Mike Kuria officially declared the 8th Tharaka University Annual International Research Conference closed, marking the end of three days dedicated to research, innovation, knowledge exchange and sustainable development.
